The Last Video Store

MORTAL KOMBAT II director Simon McQuoid and the aesthetic of action

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:00:00 -0000

A tournament of fatalities is how you’d have to describe the new action sequel MORTAL KOMBAT II. It’s a real pleasure to get to sit down with director Simon McQuoid to talk how you even build a film like that. Simon is a true lover of film, a video store kid and someone who may surprise you with what he picks up. MORTAL KOMBAT II is out NOW and it is a ton of ferocious fun.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Join Alexei & Cameron James presenting David Byrne’s TRUE STORIES at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/vivid-live/saturday-film-club-true-stories)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

The Last Video Store x Spooko: The Mangler

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0000

We're popping into your feed with a special episode this week; if you haven't heard horror movie podcast Spooko you're in for a treat. Each week Peach and Shag discuss a new horror film, and we're bringing you the episode that Alexei and Emmeline guested on to discuss the bonkers 1995 Tobe Hooper film The Mangler.

Check out Spooko here: https://www.instagram.com/_spooko_/

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Join Alexei & Cameron James presenting David Byrne’s TRUE STORIES at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/vivid-live/saturday-film-club-true-stories)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Drag Race Superstar Lazy Susan Picks Out The Best Witchy Movies

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0000

The winner of Drag Race Down Under season 4, LAZY SUSAN walks into the Last Video Store. This dream guest gets witchy to celebrate the upcoming release of their genuinely fantastic new series The Witchy Girls.

You can go see the live screenings of The Witchy Girls here (https://www.thewitchygirls.com/)

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Join Alexei & Cameron James presenting David Byrne’s TRUE STORIES at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/vivid-live/saturday-film-club-true-stories)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Josh Thomas cracks up over RAT RACE & LOVE ACTUALLY and thinks CABERET is the best movie of all time

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0000

He's here! Comedian Josh Thomas joins Alexei in the Last Video Store and bypasses the New Release section altogether to pick up some of his favourite weeklies. He's recently relaunched his classic podcast Josh Thomas and Friends and You and is going on tour all around the world, so check him out in a city near you: https://joshthomas.com.au/

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Join Alexei & Cameron James presenting David Byrne’s TRUE STORIES at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/vivid-live/saturday-film-club-true-stories)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Tonight At The Museum host Alex Lee loves cult comedies DOGMA and THE CLIMB

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0000

Finally, it is time for Alex Lee to pick out her favourite films. You know Alex from pods like Dragon Friends and Baby Shoes + the new ABC show TONIGHT AT THE MUSEUM (and our very own Alexei Toliopoulos appears on one of the episodes). Watch it on ABC iView now!

Listen to Baby Shoes here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cwDxMz5lTF0dyfTBJHb1u

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Join Alexei & Cameron James presenting David Byrne’s TRUE STORIES at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/vivid-live/saturday-film-club-true-stories)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Cameron James returns for some gentle comedy, cult classics and weird cinema (2nd Anniversary Show)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:00:00 -0000

Celebrating another year of The Last Video Store with our original first customer and best mate… it’s another return of Cameron James! Cam & Alexei are joining forces for a very special screening of TRUE STORIES the only film directed by TALKING HEADS frontman David Byrne for Saturday Film Club at The Sydney Opera House (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/vivid-live/saturday-film-club-true-stories). If you’ve never seen it, its a very rare screening of a true masterpiece.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Greg Larsen raids our war section for CIVIL WAR, ALEXANDER and DAS BOOT

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0000

Cult comedy hero and dear mate, Greg Larsen enters the video store. Greg kicks off his run at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival with his new show “Unrelenting Ultra-Violence” (https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/greg-larsen-unrelenting-ultra-violence/). Greg is wildly funny, bold and incisive with his comedy and his pick ups on the show reflect exactly that. AND make sure you check out Greg’s outrageous series on the Grouse House YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqS09O_7fr09IiQijTXZx_0DQzmzYmUHU).

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Damon Herriman loves GOODFELLAS, THE ELEPHANT MAN and a Netflix documentary that made him cry

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0000

Damon Herriman is one of Australia’s most recognisable actors, working in films like TOGETHER, ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD to HOUSE OF WAX (one of Producer Em’s favourites). He joins us in the Last Video Store where he picks a stack of great films, including classics GOODFELLAS and THE ELEPHANT MAN, and a surprising new release documentary.

See him in Art The Play, touring now: https://arttheplay.com.au/.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

Geraldine Viswanathan loves stoner comedy (and M. Night Shyamalan)

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0000

Geraldine Viswanathan has shared the screen with the likes of John Cena, Margaret Qualley, Florence Pugh and Pedro Pascal, and is fast becoming one of Australia’s most prolific comedy actors. She’s also hilarious and has fantastic taste in films, from Anna Faris’ stoner comedy Smiley Face to the movie that made her turn towards film, Little Miss Sunshine.

She joined Alexei late last year ahead of starting production on Amy Poehler’s new comedy series Dig.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Athina Rachel Tsangari, legendary filmmaker and a true hero of Greek cinema

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0000

Best known for her provocative comedy ATTENBERG and the unnervingly satirical CHEVALIER, Athina Rachel Tsangari helped define what critics dubbed the “Greek Weird Wave,” alongside longtime collaborator Yorgos Lanthimos. A longtime filmmaking hero of host Alexei, he hailed her latest film, HARVEST, as one of the very best of 2025. HARVEST is a medieval tale of modernity swallowing up tradition, it stars Caleb Landry Jones and is shot by the now legendary Sean Price Williams.

There’s no greater honor to have Athina Rachel Tsangari join us in The Last Video Store while she was serving on the Melbourne International Film Festival’s jury.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks

Matt Johnson & Jay McCarrol from Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie (the Podcast)

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0000

SPOILER WARNING - this chat may gently reveal a little bit about the the comedic premise and influence unique to the movie…

This week, The Last Video Store becomes a shrine to comedic chaos, commitment, and Canadian/Australian cinematic relations as we welcome Matt Johnson and Jay McCarroll, the masterminds behind the cult phenomenon Nirvanna the Band the Show - and now - The Movie. With scores from Jay, the feature directorial efforts from Matt Johnson (Blackberry, The Dirites and Operation Avalanche) are amongst Alexei’s favourites. Make sure you stick around to hear Matt’s impassioned speech about the power of Australian film.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

Baz Luhrmann is EPiC! (Yes, this week’s guest is Baz Luhrmann!)

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0000

What an immense privilege to chat with true visionary filmmaker Baz Luhrmann about his new film EPiC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT. Baz's maximalist imagination meets its perfect subject and energizes the mythology of Presley. It’s like a cinematic mosaic that evokes legend. Epic is a truly mesmerizing concert film and an inspired step into factual filmmaking and documentary storytelling - it’s safe to say Alexei, the ever the Elvis tragic, absolutely frothed it.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

REWIND: The Weekly Planet’s Mr Sunday Movies & Nick Mason love JOHN WICK, TRUE LIES and RONIN

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0000

On our last REWIND episode, we’re taking a look back at probably our most downloaded episode of all time! Pop culture podcast royalty, Nick "Maso" Mason and James "Mr. Sunday Movies" Clement of the Weekly Planet take an esteemed tour of THE LAST VIDEO STORE. A journey through cinema that is less a Caravan of Garbage and more like a Battle for Endorphins because this episode is a pleasurable experience for the brain.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

REWIND: The Surprising Films That Inspired The Philippou Brother's Horror Hit BRING HER BACK

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:00:00 -0000

We’re revisiting our hilarious and insightful chat with filmakers and twin brothers Danny and Michael Philippou! Their latest film, BRING HER BACK is an emotionally resonant horror exploration of grief and loss that, in many ways, surpasses their remarkable debut. Starring Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins (THE SHAPE OF WATER), Billy Barrat (RESPONSIBLE CHILD), Jonah Wren Phillips (HOW TO MAKE GRAVY) and newcomer Sora Wong, BRING HER BACK is poised to be the horror event of 2025. It’s more than a pleasure to have RackaRacka peruse the shelves of the Last Video Store and pick out some of the films that influenced them.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

REWIND: Jonathan Rhys Meyers is one of the biggest film lovers we've ever met

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:00:00 -0000

Next up in our REWIND series, where we look back at some of our most popular and memorable episodes, it’s film star Jonathan Rhys Meyers! He’s the iconic star of video store favourites BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM, VELVET GOLDMINE, MATCH POINT, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III, I’LL SLEEP WHEN I’M DEAD, THE TUDORS and might be the most passionate and exploratory film lover we’ve had through our doors. And I must admit, I was completely starstruck by him… a rare occurrence (this is Alexei writing this).

One of my favourite episodes with some of the best films ever discussed on the show and a recommendation that is sure to excite you (this was still Alexei writing this whole thing).

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Come see ALL ABOUT MY MOTHER at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club January 24th (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/cinema/saturday-film-club-all-about-my-mother-todo-sobre-mi-madre)

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

REWIND: Angela White, the Meryl Streep of P*rn

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:00:00 -0000

With perhaps more films in The Last Video Store than any other performer (all located behind the beaded curtain), what better episode to rewind to than our chat with legendary adult film superstar Angela White. The AVN Hall of Famer was the first to win Female Performer of the Year 3 times in a row earner her the honorary moniker the Meryl Streep of porn.

From modern crime masterpieces, a bonafide video store cult classic and a relationship drama with unsimulated sex Alexei weaves the perfect staff pick for Angela.Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Come see ALL ABOUT MY MOTHER at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club January 24th (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/cinema/saturday-film-club-all-about-my-mother-todo-sobre-mi-madre)

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

REWIND: AARON CHEN discovers the ultimate cult film

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:00:00 -0000

We’re kicking off the new year re-releasing some of our favourite episodes. And what better way to hit rewind than with our wonderful AARON CHEN!

Beloved comedian and dearest friend Aaron Chen joins Alexei in the Last Video Store to reminisce and pick up a combo of his favourite films. Aaron selects one of the great martial arts comedies, an iconic masterpiece of dystopian speculative fiction and a newly returned New Release title PLUS Alexei slips in an Ozlpoitation staff pick for him.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026 (https://comedy.com.au/tour/alexei-toliopoulos/)Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/thisisalexei/) for all the rental combo lists.

Come see ALL ABOUT MY MOTHER at the Sydney Opera House Saturday Film Club January 24th (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/cinema/saturday-film-club-all-about-my-mother-todo-sobre-mi-madre)

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lastvideostorebetoota/) for all of our guests picks.

The Best Films of 2025 - Documentaries, Australian Films, Comedies and Honourable Mentions

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Once again we’re celebrating some of the best films, movies and cinema of 2025 with Melbourne International Film Festival programmer and film critic Kate Jinx. This time we’re diving into the best documentaries, Australian films, comedies and honourable mentions.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

The 10 Best Films of 2025

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Celebrating some of the best films, movies and cinema of 2025 with Melbourne International Film Festival programmer and film critic Kate Jinx. Join us again next week for another bonus episode discussing the best documentaries, Australian films, comedies and honourable mentions.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

PICKS: Sinners, One Battle After Another, The Mastermind, Sorry Baby, Peter Hujar’s Day, Harvest, The Secret Agent, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, Marty Supreme, It Was Just an Accident

Thanks to Dan Murphy’s for making this episode happen! Nobody Beats Dan Murphy’s. Lowest Liquor Price Guarantee. Found it cheaper? We’ll beat it. T&Cs apply. Shop in-store or online at danmurphys.com.au. Choose to DrinkWise.

MEG MAC tells the funniest story about loving Shrek

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0000

One of Australia’s most gifted singer songwriters, Meg Mac stops by The Last Video Store to chat to Alexei in the middle of a tour intimate pop up gigs. With songs like Roll Up Your Sleeves and Low Blows, Meg has been able to tap into lyrical feelings that resonate so deeply. Her next album ITS MY PARTY is another display of immense talent for musical storytelling. What we didn’t expect from this chat was for Meg to make Alexei laugh harder than possibly any other guest.

Pick up tickets to Alexei’s comedy festival tour of his new show VHS in 2026

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

PICKS
MEG: Better Man, Toy Story, Good Morning Vietnam
STAFF PICK: Popeye (1980)

JOHN POLSON Directed Robert De Niro and Created Tropfest

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Salute a true soldier of cinema with today’s guest JOHN POLSON. He starred opposite Tom Cruise in MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE 2, directed DeNiro and Dakota Fanning in HIDE AND SEEK, and helped launch the careers of many with the behemoth short film fest TROPFEST. Good news is, TROPFEST is back!

If you’re a filmmaker, submissions are open now until January 8th, 2026. For more info, hit up Tropfest.com

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

PICKS (only because a few people have asked very nicely)
JOHN: Weapons (2025), Cool Hand Luke (1967), Kramer vs Kramer (1979)
STAFF PICK: Nobody’s Fool (1994)

NICK WARD is Aus music’s biggest cinephile and a Tom Cruise fanatic

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0000

A breakthrough artist collaborating with the likes of Troye Sivan, Nick Ward has recently actualised his film obsessed dreams… composing the score for the upcoming John Lithgow & Olivia Coleman film JIMPA. Nick also has the rare distinction of supplying the Last Video Store with some great film donations from his private collection. A true blessing!

Listen to Nick Ward’s stunning album THE HOUSE WITH THE BLUE DOOR

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

PICKS (only because a few people have asked very nicely)
NICK: The Beast (2024), Morvern Callar (2002), Risky Business (1983), Magnolia (1999), The Color of Money (1986)
STAFF PICK: The Hourglass Sanatorium (1973)

00:03:04 INTRO

00:09:23 NEW RELEASE - THE BEAST

00:16:39 WEEKYL - morvern callar

00:25:44 Risky business

00:30:31 MAGNOLIA

00:35:39 Color of money

00:41:07 STAFF PICK - the hour glass sanatorium

00:46:32 OUTRO

AUNTY DONNA & FINDING YEEZUS director Max Miller on big screen comedy

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:00:00 -0000

Double Greek boy cinephilia on the Last Video Store today as we’re joined by award winning director behind AUNTY DONNA’S BIG OL’ HOUSE OF FUN, COFFEE CAFE and FINDING YEEZUS, Max Miller. One of Alexei’s very favourite people to talk movies/films/cinema with so you know this is a going to be a belter episode.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

Mary Bronstein on directing Rose Byrne, Conan O’Brien & A$AP Rocky in a feature length panic attack

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Mary Bronstein’s new film IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU, is a feature length surrealist panic attack surrounding the performance of a lifetime from Rose Byrne. For Alexei, this is one of the most exciting discoveries of the year and with the rare dramatic turn from Conan O’Brien, it’s a must see off kilter experience. Mary Bronstein takes us through her favourite films and learns about an Aussie Rose Byrne classic.

IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU is in Australian cinemas NOW

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

Concetta Caristo and Lauren Bonner are Big Natural Film Lovers

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Two of the funniest comedians in Australia and hosts of the cult podcast BIG NATURAL TALENTS, Lauren Bonner & Concetta Caristo, slide into the Last Video Store to talk about their favourite films with Alexei.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

Ruel is a Pop Star on the Verge of Film Obsession

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

At just 22, REUL has already scored over 3 billion global streams, earned platinum and gold singles, and sold out tours worldwide. Now, the hitmaker is finding new inspiration in the darkened glow of the cinema.

In a truly great chat Ruel and Alexei genuinely reawaken the inspired nostalgia of falling in love with film for the first time.

Alexei and Maria’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Dempsey RETURNS to pick up ONE MOVIE AFTER ANOTHER

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

The Something for Kate and Fanning Dempsey National Park frontman triumphantly returns to the Last Video Store. Paul Dempsey takes us deeper into his love of cinema as he dusts off a Kubrick classic, the iconic work of a Russian master and gets into the new release of the moment ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER - all while Alexei finds out if DREAM SCENARIO was a good staff pick when he was last here…

Paul Dempsey's Shotgun Karaoke Vol. II is out NOW! And it rocks. Pick up the album and see it live!

Alexei and Maria’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 8 Best Vampire Films of All-time with Maria Lewis

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

It’s the year of the vampire in cinema so what better way to celebrate the spooky season this Halloween. Acclaimed author and vampire/horror expert Maria Lewis (The Graveyard Shift and The Phantom Never Dies podcast) bites into a list of the greatest films in the vampire cinema canon to add to your Halloween watch list. There’s only one rule… NDA (No Draculas Allowed). Happy Halloween from Alexei and your friends at the Last Video Store!

Alexei and Maria’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alison Wonderland nerds out on JAWS and her husband Ti West

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

One of the most acclaimed artists in electronic dance music, Alison Wonderlands’ new album Ghost World sounds like a cinematic score destined for a film, so we had to get her into the Last Video Store to pick up her favourite films. Alison and Alexei get their teeth stuck into Jaws for its 50th Anniversary and talk about her husband, master horror filmmaker Ti West, introducing her to the genre. Ghost World, Alison’s album will be released in December.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nina Oyama returns to talk about the most provocative comedy film

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:00:00 -0000

One of our favourite guests Nina Oyama returns to The Last Video Store to rate Alexei’s recommendation (the Korean film MICROHABITAT) and pick up controversial, dark, provactive and envelope pushing big screen comedies.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zan Rowe TAKEs 5 Weeklies for $5

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0000

It’s finally happened, TAKE 5 meets THE LAST VIDEO STORE. Zan Rowe, one of Australia’s greatest broadcasters and minds on music joins the movie brain himself Alexei Toliopoulos for one of the very best conversations on film and cinematic tastes.

The new season of TAKE 5 is out in its entirety on ABC iview NOW and includes Kevin Bacon and our very own customer Aaron Chen.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

LESBIAN SPACE PRINCESS star Gemma Chua-Tran loves volcano movies and hates singing

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Heartbreak High student turned cosmic hero and star of the outrageously funny new Australian animated comedy LESBIAN SPACE PRINCESS, Gemma Chua-Tran enters the Last Video Store. LESBIAN SPACE PRINCESS is out NOW in Australian cinemas, alongside Gemma, the film stars so many of your favourite funny Australians like Aunty Donna and Demi Lardner. So listen to this great episode and then go see a sick flick.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPLITSVILLE director Michael Angelo Covino and the Italian comedies that influenced his new film with Dakota Johnson

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Splitsville, it’s a incisive comedy about modern relationships with particular style and a fight sequence most action movies would envy. It’s the second film from star/filmmaker Michael Angelo Covino who joins Alexei Toliopoulos in the Last Video Store to pick up a few of the films that influence his cinematic voice and style + he’ll get a couple of staff pick recommendations in the form of a pair of comedic oddities from Australian film history.SPLITSVILLE arrives in Australian cinemas on September 11th.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Nov 1

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Hit up the Last Video Store on instagram for all of our guests picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dacre Montgomery and Samuel Van Grinsven are the biggest film nerds

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Actor Dacre Montgomery (Stranger Things) and filmmaker Samuel Van Grinsven (Sequin in a Blue Room) might just be the two most passionate film lovers to enter the Last Video Store. They’ve just collaborated on the exquisite new film WENT UP THE HILL, a ghost story quite unlike any you may have seen before. Also starring Vicky Krieps (Phantom Thread), the film explores death and grief in inventively dreamlike way. It’s a fantastic episode with some of the best film talk we’ve had in the Last Video Store.WENT UP THE HILL arrives in Australian cinemas next week on September 11th.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Children of Men, 6 September 2025

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WEDNESDAY creators Alfred Gough & Miles Millar are experts of adaptation

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0000

From Superman’s origins in Smallville, to modern day Adams Family in Wednesday and a list of the most tonally diverse sequels (including Herbie: Fully Loaded and Spiderman 2), Al Gough and Miles Millar are Hollywood’s experts on adaptation and sequels. Alexei Toliopoulos sits down with the creators of Wednesday to talk video store memories, working with Tim Burton and hopefully sling a staff pick recommendation at them.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Children of Men, 6 September 2025

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Col Needham, the founder of IMDb, has seen over 16,000 films

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Recommending a film to Col Needham is no easy task… His personal film diary literally evolved into THE comprehensive catalogue of all films, the Internet Movie Database. The founder of IMDb and quite possibly the most supreme movie loving guest we’ll ever have on The Last Video Store to pick up his favourite films. Alexei joins Col on one of the great adventures of movie watching to find out how a mobile travelling video store van helped shape his love of film.Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Children of Men, 6 September 2025

Our huge thank you to the Melbourne International Film Festival for getting Col to visit the Last Video Store

GUEST PICKS: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (action), Vertigo (thriller), Touch of Evil (crime)
STAFF PICKS: Limbo (2023) (crime)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Nicholson Unspools her Favourite Movie Musicals

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0000

She wrote the book on Tom Cruise (for Cahiers Du Cinema) and has examined cinema greatness with Paul Scheer on the great film podcast UNSPOOLED, now while in Australia for the Melbourne International Film Festival, Amy Nicholson enters the Last Video Store to talk big screen movie musicals with Alexei Toliopoulos.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists and follow Amy here.

Alexei’s screening at the Sydney Opera House - Saturday Film Club: Children of Men, 6 September 2025

GUEST PICKS: BETTER MAN (music), FOOTLIGHT PARADE (music), HAIRSPRAY (cult)
STAFF PICKS: WOMEN HE’S UNDRESSED (Documentary)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Surprising Film That Inspired The Fairbairn Brothers' Love Of Horror

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Jaxon and Lachlan Fairbairn are comedians, creatives, brothers and huge film lovers, who you might recognise from their huge following on YouTube or Instagram. And we lied in the title; only one of them loves horror films. The other would prefer to cosy up with a classic action film (we'll leave you to find out which one).They join Alexei this week to chat about some of their favourite films, from the creepy ODDITY to the classic THE KARATE KID, and how the ball torture scene in CASINO ROYALE ties into it all.

Listen to The Fairbairn Podcast

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: SPIDERMAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE (adventure), THE KARATE KID (adventure), ODDITY (horror)
STAFF PICK: THE LAST DRAGON (action)

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TEX PERKINS, The Cruel Sea and Cool Movies

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0000

All-round icon and legendary frontman of THE CRUEL SEA, Tex Perkins steps into The Last Video Store to pick out some gritty classics, unexpected gems and the stunning new remake of a century old classic. We dig into the cinematic moments that shaped him, swap tales about VHS treasures, and explore how The Cruel Sea’s “The Honeymoon Is Over” found its way onto the soundtrack of EMPIRE RECORDS. It’s a rollicking conversation about movies, music, and the moods that connect them. Alexei has not stopped listening to the new album from Tex and The Cruel Sea, STRAIGHT INTO THE SUN, all year… it comes highly recommended.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: NOSFERATU (horror), MCCABE & MRS. MILLER (western), HELL IN THE PACIFIC (war)
STAFF PICKS: FIRST COW (western)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hilltop Hoods on Geezers, Gangsters and Genre

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we’re joined by Aussie hip hop royalty, Hilltop Hoods, for a cinematic hangout with Alexei in the Last Video Store. Pressure cracks open some true video store nostalgia in the Adventure section, DJ Debris gets geeky over Guy Ritchie and Suffa takes us to one of the greats of independent French cinema with a point that will redefine how you think about La Haine.
Pick up the new album and tour tickets from hilltophoods.com

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: Raiders of the Lost Ark (Adventure), La Haine (Cult), The Gentlemen (Crime)
STAFF PICKS: The Secret Agent (Thriller) and Bacurau (Western)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TOGETHER Director Michael Shanks - the Surprising Influence of M. Night Shyamalan

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 03:49:12 -0000

Hitting cinemas next week, TOGETHER marks the brilliant feature debut of filmmaker Michael Shanks. Before teaming up with Alison Brie and Dave Franco for this inventive blend of horror and relationship comedy-drama, Shanks built a cult following online through his YouTube comedy channel timtimfed and the hilarious series The Wizards of Aus. Now, he steps into The Last Video Store to chat with Alexei about some of his all-time favourite films and his new film TOGETHER.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: TOGETHER, ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND, SIGNS
STAFF PICKS: SEEDING OF A GHOST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marlon Williams & Ursula Grace Williams – Two Worlds, Many Movies

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 02:38:55 -0000

Aotearoa’s own Marlon Williams steps into the Last Video Store alongside filmmaker Ursula Grace Williams to talk about Marlon Williams: Two Worlds – Ngā Ao E Rua, a stunning portrait documentary about the making of Marlon’s most ambitious musical project yet, an album sung entirely in te reo Māori. Host Alexei Toliopoulos calls it not only one of his favourite films of the year, but one of the greatest music documentaries he's ever seen (and this a guy that has seen a lot of fricking movies).

The film is screening at MIFF this August - tickets here

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: Marlon Williams: Two Worlds - Ngā Ao E Rua (Documentary), Kill List (horror), The Eternal Memory (Documentary)
STAFF PICKS: Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched: A History of Folk Horror (Documentary)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best 8 Australian Horror Films (You Haven’t Seen Yet) with Director Kane Senes

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Australia is known for it's horror movies, but for every Wolf Creek and The Babadook there are dozens of freaky films that you might not be on your radar yet. This week, Alexei is joined by horror direction Kane Senes (Sissy, For Now) to trawl through the horror section and uncover some lesser known Aussie gems, from the 1970s to the 2000s…right up to the New Wave of Australian horror cinema

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here are Kane and Alexei's picks from this episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DEMI ADEJUYIGBE IS GOING TO CHOOSE THREE (3) FAVOURITE MOVIES

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0000

While touring his comedy show, DEMI ADEJUYIGBE IS GOING TO DO ONE (1) BACKFLIP, Demi Adejuyigbe stopped by the Last Video Store to pick up some of his favourite films from little Alexei Toliopoulos. Genuinely one of the most exciting comedians in the fricking world right now, you might know Demi from GAME CHANGER, writing for THE GOOD PLACE or even as one of the best Letterboxd users. Demi could not be a more perfect guest to slide into the Last Video Store to talk MOVIESSSSS, DUDE!

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: SINNERS (horror), LADY BIRD (drama), WHAT’S UP DOC? (comedy)
STAFF PICKS: LOOKING FOR ALIBRANDI (comedy)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

KILLING HEIDI are cult cinema zombies...from MEET THE FEEBLES to 28 DAYS LATER

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0000

On the 25th anniversary of their classic debut album REFLECTOR, rockstar siblings Ella Hooper and Jesse Hooper join Alexei in the LAST VIDEO STORE to pick up some of their favourite films. From the all-timer classic space odyssey from a galaxy far far away to turn of the millennium zombie nightmares, Ella and Jesse are true video store connoisseurs with a rich history of loving cinema. PLUS they talk about having songs on the iconic LOOKING FOR ALIBRANDI and SPIDER-MAN 2 soundtracks.

Catch them on tour with 25 YEARS OF REFLECTOR right now!

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: 28 DAYS LATER (horror), STAR WARS (adventure), CITY OF LOST CHILDREN (cult), MEET THE FEEBLES (cult)

STAFF PICKS: ATTACK THE BLOCK (action)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

3 of the best absurd films with artist/fish Montaigne

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0000

From Eurovision to collaborating with THE David Byrne from Talking Heads (and the movie masterpiece TRUE STORIES), Montaigne is a truly creative artist with a distinct style… and yes that is very apparent in their picks on the Last Video Store. Montaigne stacks their favourite movie picks on the counter and chats about loving mucked-up absurdist world-building.

Montaigne’s new album “it's hard to be a fish” is out right now! And check out the music videos on YouTube.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: MICKEY 17 (sci-fi), SWISS ARMY MAN (comedy), SPEED RACER (cult)
STAFF PICKS: TOMORROW I’LL WAKE UP AND SCALD MYSELF WITH TEA (cult)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Go-Betweens, Bob Dylan and the favourite films of Australia’s great indie rock songwriter Robert Forster

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week on The Last Video Store, Alexei Toliopoulos dusts off a well-worn VHS and welcomes a true icon of Australian music into the store: Robert Forster, co-founder of The Go-Betweens, acclaimed solo artist with the new album STRAWBERRIES.Together, they rummage through Robert’s cinematic memories. From the art-house films that shaped his songwriting with creative collaborator Grant McLennan, to the immersive recreations of Bob Dylan’s early electric days as performed by Timothée Chalamet.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: A COMPLETE UNKNOWN (music), BELL BOOK & CANDLE (comedy), SUNSET BOULEVARD (crime)
STAFF PICKS: TOO LATE (crime)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From ANTZ to TRAINSPOTTING: the favourite films of Calum Hood (5SOS)

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Perusing the shelves this week is Calum Hood, best known as the bassist of 5 Seconds of Summer, he’s about to release debut solo album “ORDER chaos ORDER”. A very funny episode that sees Calum and Alexei chat through childhood oddities like ANTZ and forgotten Aussie dog movie Napoleon.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: HELL OF A SUMMER (Comedy), TRAINSPOTTING (cult), MOULIN ROUGE (music)
STAFF PICKS: HUMAN TRAFFIC (cult)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Surprising Films That Inspired The Philippou Brothers (RackaRacka) Latest Horror Hit BRING HER BACK

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 28 May 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Twin brothers Danny and Michael Philippou are the most excited voices in Australian genre cinema since the release of their horror hit TALK TO ME. Their latest film, BRING HER BACK is another emotionally resonant horror exploration of grief and loss that, in many ways, surpasses their remarkable debut. Starring Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins (THE SHAPE OF WATER), Billy Barrat (RESPONSIBLE CHILD), Jonah Wren Phillips (HOW TO MAKE GRAVY) and newcomer Sora Wong, BRING HER BACK is poised to be the horror event of 2025. It’s more than a pleasure to have RackaRacka peruse the shelves of the Last Video Store and pick out some of the films that influenced them.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA, SYDNEY ENCORE and MELBOURNE ENCORE in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s the RackaRacka pick-up list.

GUEST PICKS: BRING HER BACK (HORROR), WHATEVER HAPPEND TO BABY JANE (THRILLER), BRAINDEAD (aka DEADALIVE) (CULT)STAFF PICKS: SINGAPORE SLING (CULT), HIRUKO THE GOBLIN (HORROR)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2 Best Video Store Movies of All Time with Mish Wittrup & Zachary Ruane

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 21 May 2025 17:00:00 -0000

From the MISH & ZACH podcast, comedian Mish Wittrup wanders into the Last Video Store, and the desk is manned by both Alexei Toliopoulos & Zachary Ruane. A passionate and opinionated movie buff and film lover Mish appropriately picks out the 2 best films that prominently feature video stores.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA and SYDNEY ENCORE show in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Mish’s list and here’s her actual letterboxd profile.

GUEST PICKS: MURIEL’S WEDDING (Comedy), SCREAM (Horror), EARTH GIRL’S ARE EASY (Comedy)
STAFF PICKS: CELIA (Horror), Shirley Valentine (Comedy)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should PEARL have won an Oscar? With Taskmaster's Danielle Walker

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 14 May 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Danielle Walker is one of the funniest people in the country, and brings an eclectic mix of films to The Last Video Store. The comedian and winner of Taskmaster loves everything from the instant cult classic Pearl to the family friendly shenanigans of Andre (The Seal, not My Dinner With).

Danielle is touring her show 'Mundane' at the Sydney Comedy Festival now so make sure you check it out!

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA and SYDNEY ENCORE show in JULY.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Lee loves Albert Brooks comedies and the psychomagic of Jodorowsky

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 07 May 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Australian pop music royalty and star of teen comedy classic THE RAGE IN PLACID LAKE, Ben Lee roams through the Last Video Store. Ben is a true cinephile whose tastes range from the surreal to the whacky. Ben’s seminal album “Awake Is the New Sleep” is celebrating its 20th anniversary (stay tuned for cool stuff around that, I’m sure) and you can listen to him and Ione Skye every week on their excellent podcast WEIRDER TOGETHER.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in CANBERRA and SYDNEY ENCORE show in JULY

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Ben’s list.

GUEST PICKS: Psychomagic: A Healing Art (Documentary), Adam Green’s Aladdin (Art house), Defending Your Life (Comedy)
STAFF PICKS: Local Legends (cult)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comedy trio Mates Rates love SIDEWAYS, IN BRUGES and....MINIONS: THE RISE OF GRU

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Kristo, Sammy and Tom are three besties who you might know better as Mates Rates, who not only create hilarious sketches online and a podcast, but also created their own short(ish) film! It's called Mates Rates' Corporate Retreat, and it's a documentary about a road trip across NSW where they travelled in a crappy car, eating canned food, getting up to shenanigans.

Our first trio on the pod brings an eclectic mix of films, including an (dis)honourable mention in the form of Drillbit Taylor.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANEFollow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

GUEST PICKS: Sideways (Comedy), In Bruges (Crime), Minions: Rise Of Gru (Children)
STAFF PICKS: Klown (Comedy)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nash Edgerton loves E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL & FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Writer, Director, Stuntman. Nobody’s doing it like Nash Edgerton. He kicked of his feature directing career with the dark Aussie noir THE SQUARE (a film Alexei actually jigged school to go see in cinemas) and he also directed all 3 seasons of what might very well be the very best Australian television series MR INBETWEEN. A pleasure to get Nash in to peruse the shelves of the Last Video Store with Alexei.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here is Nash's list, and here is Producer Em's Letterboxd!

GUEST PICKS: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (Comedy), E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (Adventure), Straight Time (Crime)
STAFF PICKS: Bellman and True (Crime)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kriv Stenders, director of THE CORRESPONDENT, loves Aussie classics DOGS IN SPACE and LOVE SERENADE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Director and producer Kriv Stenders is a true Australian film legend, and has directed films like Red Dog and his new one, political thriller The Correspondent. He's also a The Last Video Store fan, so it's only natural he finally graced the halls of our fine establishment!

Kriv lives and breathes film, especially Australian cinema, and has picked out some absolute classics to mull over with Alexei. His film The Correspondent is in cinemas now!

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Follow Kriv on Letterboxd.

GUEST PICKS: The Correspondent (Drama), Dogs In Space (Cult), Love Serenade (Cult)
STAFF PICKS: Out Of The Blue (Cult)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Gibb loves spooky cult favourites LAKE MUNGO and THE WAILING

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Comedian and self-professed horror-head Will Gibb joins Alexei in The Last Video Store to chat about three of his favourite spooky films. Will is well-known for his hilarious skits on TikTok and Instagram, but he's also a bonafide cinephile, and his picks include Aussie cult classics and underground creepy Korean films. He's also touring his stand up show 'Why Am I Like This?' now so click the link below to check it out!

WILL’s comedy festival show link

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Follow Will on Letterboxd.

GUEST PICKS: Red Rooms (Horror), The Wailing (Horror), Lake Mungo (Horror)
STAFF PICKS: Noroi The Curse (Horror)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gracie Otto loves MULHOLLAND DRIVE & CHUNGKING EXPRESS

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Weaving between narrative and documentary features OTTO BY OTTO, SERIOUSLY RED and extensive work directing some of the best television (including DEADLOCH and HEARTBREAK HIGH), Gracie Otto is one of the most skilled and in-demand filmmakers in Australia. With great stories around Wong Kar-wai and David Lynch, Gracie’s visit to the Last Video Store is one of the greats.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Gracie’s list.

GUEST PICKS: OTTO BY OTTO (documentary), MULHOLLAND DRIVE (cult), CHUNGKING EXPRESS (cult)
STAFF PICKS: HIPPO (cult)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julio Torres loves Nicole Kidman in BIRTH + his surreal comedy PROBLEMISTA

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Just before he lands at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Julio Torres joins Alexei Toliopoulos to explore the Last Video Store. Julio Torres is one of the great modern masters of surrealist comedy. Julio made his bones writing now classic sketches at Saturday Night Live (including PAPYRUS starring Ryan Gosling), he’s also the creative force on tv series LOS ESPOOKYS & FANTASMAS. Now Julio has directed his feature film debut, the brilliant comedy PROBLEMISTA, starring Tilda Swinton.

JULIO’s comedy festival show link

PROBLEMISTA screening with Julio & Alexei

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANEFollow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Julio’s list.

GUEST PICKS: PROBLEMISTA (Comedy), WHERE IS THE FRIEND’S HOUSE (Art House), BIRTH (Cult)
STAFF PICKS: T BLOCKERS (Horror), LOVE SERENADE (Cult)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Hing reveals his list of the top 50 movies of all time (from when he was 19 years old)

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

When comedian and podcast host Michael 'Hingers' Hing was 19 and in his 2nd year of uni, he wrote a list of what are, in his opinion, the best 50 movies of all time. And for the first time ever, he's sharing that list exclusively on The Last Video Store podcast.

From Pulp Fiction to Finding Nemo, Michael and Alexei go through every movie on that list in this very special episode which will have you saying "Are you talkin' to me?" or something equally annoying.

See Michael at your local comedy festival in Australia

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: David Wenham, an original video store customer

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

A short and sharp visit to the Last Video Store from one of the greats of Australian cinema, David Wenham. His new film SPIT sees Wenham return to perhaps his most iconic role of ex-junkie Johnny Spitieri from GETTIN SQUARE. SPIT is out now in cinemas.

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cameron James returns for some hard neo noir and the classic SUNSET BOULEVARD (Anniversary Spectacular)

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Celebrating a year into the pod with our original first customer and best mate… it’s the return of Cameron James! Cam has just released his new half hour special on Grouse House (the home of Finding Yeezus).

See Cam at your local comedy festival in Australia

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Cam’s list.

GUEST PICKS: ONE FLASE MOVE (crime), SUNSET BOULEVARD (crime)

STAFF PICKS: TWILIGHT (crime), CUTTER’S WAY (crime), ELEVATOR TO THE GALLOWS (crime)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Filip Hammar & Fredrik Wikingsson directors/stars of THE LAST JOURNEY love SIDEWAYS and THE ACT OF KILLING

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Their film THE LAST JOURNEY just became the highest grossing Swedish documentary ever and was selected as the Swedish entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards. The duo Filip och Fredrik are responsible for some of Sweden’s best-loved comedic journalistic innovations, THE LAST JOURNEY is no exception. A touching and hilarious comedy documentary road movie as they take Hammar’s retired father on a nostalgic trip to France to help him get back his joie de vivre!

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Filip & Fredrik’s list.

GUEST PICKS: THE LAST JOURNEY (Documentary), THE ACT OF KILLING (Documentary), SIDEWAYS (Comedy)
ALEXEI’S STAFF PICK: HANDS ON A HARD BODY (Documentary), OTTO BY OTTO (Documentary)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charles Williams, director of INSIDE starring Guy Pearce, loves FAT CITY

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Filmmaker Charles Williams won the Short Film Palme d'Or at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival for his his short ALL THESE CREATURES. His feature directorial debut INSIDE is in cinemas now. A superb crime thriller starring Oscar nominee Guy Pearce, Cosmo Jarvis (Shogun) and newcomer Vincent Miller is in Aus cinemas now. He’s also a former video store clerk so you know it is a banger!

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION with Zach Ruane in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE, PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Charles’ list.

GUEST PICKS: INSIDE, FAT CITY and THE EARRINGS OF MADAM DE…
STAFF PICK: PRIME CUT, THE FUNERAL (1996)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zachary Ruane returns for THE SUBSTANCE, I SAW THE TV GLOW and De Palma’s BODY DOUBLE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Aunty Donna legend and film obsessive Zachary Ruane returns to the Last Video Store to reveal if Alexei’s recommendation of Brian De Palma’s BODY DOUBLE really was the perfect staff pick and to talk through a pair of the best new horror movies.

BOOK TICKETS for Zach and Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE , PERTH and BRISBANE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s ZACH’s return list AND his original pick-up list (and also his actual letterboxd account)

GUEST PICKS: BODY DOUBLE, THE SUBSTANCE and I SAW THE TV GLOW
STAFF PICK: DEF BY TEMPTATION

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenna Owen & Vic Zerbst love the erotic milk play of BABYGIRL

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Sometimes known as the sketch duo FREUDIAN NIP, Jenna and Vic are now the creators and stars of OPTICS on ABC and the Christmas movie NUGGET IS DEAD (featuring little old Alexei Toliopoulos). They join their mate little Alexei Toliopoulos to pick up some of their favourite films and biggest comedy touchstones while they visit the Last Video Store.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Jenna and Vic’s list (and also here is Vic’s letterboxd).

VIC AND JENNA’S PICKS: BABYGIRL, RAT RACE, THE OTHER GUY
STAFF PICK: PARTY GIRL

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE , PERTH and BRISBANE SOON

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aisha Dee loves HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS and the Blaxploitation vengeance of Pam Grier in COFFY

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Star of APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (on NETFLIX), THE BOLD TYPE and one of the best new Australian horror films SISSY, Aisha Dee joins Alexei on THE LAST VIDEO STORE. And almost instantly is the guest with the biggest impact on the show so far by picking the coolest fricking movie anyone has picked up in the first year of the pod and then immediately picking up the film that Alexei hates more than any other. Dream guest, fantastic episode.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Aisha’s list.

AISHA’S PICKS: OFFICIAL COMPETITION, COFFY, HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
STAFF PICK: WILD TALES

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE and BRISBANE SOON

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ratbag loves EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, THE BOY AND THE HERON and the portals of fantasy

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Wandering into the Last Video Store to pick up some of their favourite films is one of Alexei’s new favourite musicians, ratbag. A rising Aotearoa alternative artist, ratbag’s latest track is “look what you're doing to me” and it continues a streak of fun and thoughtful music married with incredibly creative music videos. It’s true ratbag fricking rocks, in particular, Alexei also loves their double EP “pinky girl”/”pinky boy”.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s ratbag’s list.

RATBAG’S PICKS: THE BOY AND THE HERON, EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE
STAFF PICK: SON OF THE WHITE MARE

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE and BRISBANE SOON

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leigh Whannell loves THE FLY, THE SHINING and they both influenced his horror films WOLF MAN and THE INVISIBLE MAN

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Our special guest in the Last Video Store this week is Leigh Whannell. Breaking into horror co-writing SAW with James Wan, Leigh has built a reputation as one of the modern masters of genre cinema directing the films UPGRADE and THE INVISIBLE MAN. His latest film WOLF MAN is in cinemas now. Starring Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner, WOLF MAN is a tense, thoughtful and horrifying lycanthropic nightmare.Join Leigh Whannell as he chats with Alexei Toliopoulos about some of his favourite films in the style of an old school video store rental combo + a staff pick from Alexei (based on his taste).

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Leigh’s list on LB.

LEIGH’S PICKS: WOLF MAN, THE FLY and THE SHINING
STAFF PICK: VAMPIR CUADECUC

BOOK TICKETS for Alexei’s comedy fest show REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE and BRISBANE ON SALE SOON

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary comedian Wendy Harmer loves DUNE, IN COLD BLOOD and the dark side of the outback in WAKE IN FRIGHT

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Author, playwright, broadcaster and one of the all-time legends of Australian comedy Wendy Harmer stops by the Last Video Store to visit her little mate Alexei and talk cinema. One of the most fun episodes of the podcast so far with the fast and loose riffs, these two have perfect comedic chemistry. Wendy’s one of the most fascinating people in Aus arts and media, of course her favourite films reflect that!

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Wendy’s picks list.

WENDY’S PICKS: DUNE, WAKE IN FRIGHT, IN COLD BLOOD
STAFF PICK: THE STRANGER

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best Documentaries, Australian Films, Directorial Debuts and Honourable Mentions of 2024

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0000

With Kate Jinx (Melbourne International Film Festival programmer, film critic and co-host of SEE ALSO podcast), Alexei talk through their favourite films in 2024 in the categories of Australian cinema, factual/documentary films, directorial debuts, honourable mentions and films that kinda came out in 2023 that felt too old for us to put on our lists this year.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s the list of every film we talk about on this episode.

AUSTRALIAN FILMS:
Memoir of a Snail, Late Night with the Devil, A Grand Mockery, Flathead

Documentaries:

No Other Land, Dahomey, Balomania, Witches, Porcelain War

Directorial Debuts:
Hoard, Good One, Julie Keeps Quiet, The First Omen, There’s Still Tomorrow, Kneecap, Monkey Man

Honourable Mentions and Movies That Might Be from 2023:
The Taste of Things, La Chimera, Hundreds of Beavers, The Zone of Interest, Anatomy of a Fall, May December, The Substance, I Saw the TV Glow, Universal Language, My Favourite Cake, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, His Three Daughters

Repertory Screenings:

After Hours, Dead End, Crystal Voyager, The Last Days of Chez Nous

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Farrier loves ALIENS and a documentary about sperm donors in America

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0000

One of the great modern documentarians, David Farrier explores factual storytelling through his films TICKLED and MR ORGAN, the Netflix series DARK TOURIST and now weekly on his must listen podcast FLIGHTLESS BIRD. If there was no TICKLED, there’d be no FINDING DRAGO, FINDING DESPERADO or FINDING YEEZUS so you can imagine it was truly an honour for Alexei to host David Farrier at the Last Video Store.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s David’s list and his actual profile on LB.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best Films, Movies & Cinema of 2024

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Celebrating some of the best films, movies and cinema of 2024 with Melbourne International Film Festival programmer, film critic and co-host of SEE ALSO Kate Jinx. Join us again next week for another bonus episode discussing the best documentaries, Australian films, directorial debuts and honourable mentions of 2024.

Kate’s top 5 films of 2024: Janet Planet, Hard Truths, Anora, All We Imagine as Light and Trap

Alexei’s top 5 films of 2024: Better Man, Hard Truths, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, Love Lies Bleeding, Challengers and Babygirl

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Alexei’s TOP 24 FILMS OF 2024.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Triple J’s Luka Muller loves SUPERBAD, STARSHIP TROOPERS and the carnal pleasures of eating an ortolan

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Comedian, Triple J breaky host and ⅓ of the haunted brains behind the fantastic comedic podcast Oooh, Spooky, LUKA MULLER joins Lex to wander through the hallowed halls of the Last Video Store picking out his favourite movies. Luka’s comedy special Five Top Smells I Smelled Before comes out on December 22, on the Comedy Republic YouTube.

JOIN Alexei for a night of NASTY CHRISTMAS films at Golden Age Cinema on Dec 20

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Luka’s list, and Luka’s actual letterboxd account.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AUNTY DONNA’s Mark Bonanno loves SPEED RACER and Furiously Fast Families

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0000

It is the festive time for pud and panettone so Mark Bonnano had to swing by to pick up his favourite films. One of the funniest film lovers around. Mark just announced AUNTY DONNA’s 2025 tour DREM - pick up tickets NOW

JOIN Alexei for a night of NASTY CHRISTMAS films at Golden Age Cinema on Dec 20

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s MARK’s list on LETTERBOXD.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugo Weaving & Daniel Henshall love dark Christmas movies and Turkish arthouse cinema

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0000

HOW TO MAKE GRAVY, the adaptation of the classic Paul Kelly song is your taste of Australian Christmas melancholy cinema this festive season. Stars of the film and icons of cinema HUGO WEAVING and DANIEL HENSHALL wander into the Last Video Store to pick up a rental combo of their favourite films. A great chat with a couple of dream guests.

Between them they've starred in films like The Matrix, Snowtown, Lord of the Rings, Acute Misfortune, The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert Proof, The Babadook, These Final Hours and V for Vendetta. And we're not just listing those for the Search Engine Optimisation (ok, maybe a bit).

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Hugo and Dan’s picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confidence Man’s Sugar Bones loves THE SUBSTANCE, ROMEO + JULIET and maximalist cinema

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0000

The most excitingly outrageous act in electro-pop, Sugar Bones from Confidence Man stops by The Last Video Store to chat to Alexei about his favourite films and the cinematic influences on their new album 3AM (La La La).

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Sugar Bones’s picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HOUSE OF THE DRAGON’s Abubakar Salim loves THE DARK KNIGHT, POOR THINGS and the accent experiments of Tom Hardy

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0000

You know him for his tremendous performance as Alyn of Hull on HOUSE OF THE DRAGON, Abubakar Salim is a true renaissance man and multitalented creative. Starring in films like NAPOLEON, series like RAISED BY WOLVES and video games like ASSASSIN’S CREED: ORIGINS. He’s also the creative force and director of Tales of Kenzera: Zau, a metroidvania style adventure game with a focus on poignant emotional storytelling.

It was beyond a pleasure to wander through the shelves of the store with Abu while he was in Australia for SXSW Sydney (who we thank for the link up)!

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Abu’s picks!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Kelly loves THE SOUND OF MUSIC, BIG NIGHT and cuisine on screen

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0000

One of Australia’s most cherished singer/songwriters Paul Kelly steps into the Last Video Store to talk us through some of his favourite films/movies. Paul’s music does that exceedingly rare thing of transcending generations.

Paul’s new album FEVER LONGING STILL is out right now.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s PK’s list of picks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers loves ALIEN, AMERICAN FICTION and the transcendental cinema of Andrei Tarkovsky

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0000

The iconic star of video store favourites BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM, VELVET GOLDMINE, MATCH POINT, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III, I’LL SLEEP WHEN I’M DEAD, THE TUDORS and so much more joins Alexei in the Last Video Store. Jonathan Rhys Meyers might be the most passionate and exploratory film lover we’ve had through our doors. And I must admit, I was completely starstruck by him… a rare occurrence (this is Alexei writing this).

One of my favourite episodes with some of the best films ever discussed on the show and a recommendation that is sure to excite you (this was still Alexei writing this whole thing).

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Jonathan Rhys Meyers favaourite films list.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meyne Wyatt & THE MOOGAI director Jon Bell love the surrealist scares of A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

The star and director of the brilliantly creepy homegrown horror picture THE MOOGAI wander into The Last Video Store. THE MOOGAI follows a young Aboriginal couple whose joy at bringing home their second baby quickly turns to dread, as the mother becomes convinced that a malevolent spirit is haunting her, intent on taking her child. It’s a great example of real-life fears and historical horrors woven through cinematic metaphor while still retaining that literal danger for our unlucky characters. THE MOOGAI is in cinemas around Australia OCTOBER 31, the perfect treat for the Halloween season.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Meyne & Jon’s combo list.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HALLOWEEN BONUS: Demi Lardner loves SAW and a bunch of other messed up horror films

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 23:50:31 -0000

Comedian, horror movie lover and all 'round freak Demi Lardner joins Alexei in the Last Video Store for this special All Hallow's Eve bonus episode to discuss three of her favourite spooky films. From the classic Saw to the less classic Blood Hook, Demi is a true twisted sister.

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dylan River loves NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN, PARIS TEXAS and the bluegrass tunes of O BROTHER WHERE ART THOU?

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

With his new series, THOU SHALT NOT STEAL, Dylan River cements himself as one of the country’s most exciting voices in moving image. THOU SHALT NOT STEAL is a limited series that captures all the tones and textures a great road movie should, with all the vibrant spirit and humor of Tarantino or Coen Brothers crime cinema.

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Dylan River’s list.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oscar-winning animator Adam Elliot loves THE ELEPHANT MAN and the nurturing melancholy of MEMOIR OF A SNAIL

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

When his film HARVIE KRUMPET won an Academy Award, it felt like the entirety of Australia won alongside him. One of the great auteurs of animated cinema Adam Elliot (MARY AND MAX) stops by to talk about his latest masterpiece MEMOIR OF A SNAIL and his style of filmmaking called “clayography”, weaving together clay animation and biographical elements. A true cinephile with impeccable taste, Adam is a pure delight and hard person to recommend a staff pick for!

MEMOIR OF A SNAIL is in cinemas from today

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Adam’s list!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie Clausen loves TALK TO ME, NEAR DARK and metaphysical horror cinema

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Just in time for the spooky season, we wander through the horror section with one of the true icons of Australian Podcasting, Charlie Clausen. Who also got his start working in a humble video store. With Wil Anderson, he’s hanging out in your ears with EVERYONE RELAX (TOFOP / 2 Guys 1 Cup) - and just kicking off a new season of paranormal phenomena exploration in THE UNEXPLAINED: EXPLAINED. Not to mention he’s acted in basically every major Australian series from McLeod's Daughters to Wolf Creek. It is an all-timer episode with a legendary soldier of cinema returning to the video store trenches.

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s CHARLIE’S LIST.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cameron James returns STREETS OF FIRE (did he like it?)

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Sun, 06 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

RETURN CHUTE SPECIAL! Cameron James drops his staff pick back through the return chute and we find out his thoughts and reactions to STREET OF FIRE.

SEE CAMERON JAMES tape his new half-hour comedy special in MELBOURNE @ Stupid Old Studios

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polish Club’s Dave Novak loves GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS and the existential horrors of nuclear apocalyptic THREADS

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:00:00 -0000

One of the most beautiful voices of Aus indie rock Dave Novak stops by ahead of POLISH CLUB’s national album tour. Go see them live in your town from next week! And their new album HEAVY WEIGHT HEART is a stunner!

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Novak’s list.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michelle Brasier loves FURIOUS 7, CRUEL INTENTIONS and MARCEL THE SHELL

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Multitalented comedic sensation Michelle Brasier (Aunty Donna Big Ol House of Fun, Koala Man, Thank God You’re Here) drops by The Last Video Store in Betoota to chat to Alexei Toliopoulos and select a stack of movies, and her picks do not disappoint. From the unexpected tenderness of FURIOUS 7 to the expected horniness of CRUEL INTENTIONS, Michelle is a true film lover.

You can read or listen to her fantastic book 'My Brother's Ashes are in a Sandwich Bag' here.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Michelle's combo on LB.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

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Keith Urban loves BMX BANDITS, KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON and THE CASTLE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0000

As he travels through Betoota, the legendary country music superstar Keith Urban stops by the Last Video Store to chat to Alexei Toliopoulos about his favourite films. Truly, what a fricking treat to chat to Keith about Nicole Kidman’s breakout Aussie classic BMX BANDITS and get deep on the gentle hold of Robbie Robertson’s score for KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON. Keith’s new album HIGH is out this week!

All-timer episode.

Book tickets to see Alexei & Zachary Ruane (Aunty Donna) in their play REFUSED CLASSIFICATION in Sydney and in Melbourne

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Keith’s combo on Letterboxd.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Weekly Planet’s Mr Sunday Movies & Nick Mason love JOHN WICK, TRUE LIES and RONIN

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Pop culture podcast royalty, Nick "Maso" Mason and James "Mr. Sunday Movies" Clement of the Weekly Planet take an esteemed tour of THE LAST VIDEO STORE. A journey through cinema that is less a Caravan of Garbage and more like a Battle for Endorphins because this episode is a pleasurable experience for the brain.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s their combo on LB.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Missy Higgins loves FURIOSA, 12 MONKEYS and GIRL, INTERRUPTED

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0000

It can’t be fricking denied, Missy Higgins is one of Australia’s most cherished singer/songwriters. Her new album The Second Act – “a kind of sequel” to her hugely influential debut The Sound Of White which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Missy jumps into the Last Video Store and guides Alexei Toliopoulos through her weirdly perfect trilogy of films.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Missy Higgins combo!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

KNEECAP director Rich Peppiatt loves GOOD WILL HUNTING and LA HAINE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:00:00 -0000

“Every word of Irish spoken is a bullet for Irish freedom” are the resonant words found in the unlikely indie crowd-pleaser of the year KNEECAP. Based on the origin story of the riotous and ground-breaking Irish-language rap trio Kneecap, the film stars the band’s Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí in their acting debuts alongside Michael Fassbender.

The film’s director Rich Peppiatt jumps into the Last Video Store with Alexei Toliopoulos to talk about KNEECAP, some of his favourite films and slide out with the perfect staff pick recommendation.

KNEECAP is in cinemas in Aus right now. If you want to score a free double pass hit us up on instagram @lastvideostorebetoota with your rental combo.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Rich Peppiatt’s combo!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Green Knight director David Lowery loves THE FIRST OMEN, DEAD MAN and getting freaked out by Freddy Krueger

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 09:12:24 -0000

One of Alexei’s absolute favourite contemporary filmmakers David Lowery jumps into the Last Video Store to pick up a stack of his favourite films. David’s feature films include Sundance Grand Jury Prize winner Ain’t Them Bodies Saints, the live-action adaptation of Pete’s Dragon, A Ghost Story, The Old Man & the Gun starring Robert Redford and Sissy Spacek; and the Dev Patel–led fantasy epic The Green Knight.

We talk about some of his first memories of films before even seeing them, the surrealist horror of Freddy Krueger, horror cinema, the genre-bending of Jim Jarmusch, the modern fables of Aki Kaurismäki and Indigenous ghost story anthology.

Pick up tickets to catch Alexei in conversation with DAVID LOWERY at MIFF here

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s David Lowery’s combo on Letterboxd.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danny from DUNE RATS loves DUNE, SCARFACE and THE CASTLE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Danny Beus from the Aussie rock band Dune Rats finally goes on the record on whether the Muad'Dib (the rat from DUNE) inspired the name of his band (Dune Rats). Their hectic new album is out now IF IT SUCKS, TURN IT UP and they’re about to set out on a huge tour with DARTZ + PURPLE PINGERS.

Pick up tickets to catch Alexei in conversation with DAVID LOWERY at MIFF here

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Here’s Danny’s combo on Letterboxd.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elouise Eftos loves DROP DEAD GORGEOUS and ANATOMY OF A FALL…

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 17:00:00 -0000

MULTI-TALENT ALERT! Comedian, actor and Greek Elouise Eftos stops by the Last Video Store to talk about one of her great passions (CINEMA). We go deep on inspiring comedic performances and representation on screen.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Here’s Elouise’s list on letterboxd.Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy
Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Powderfinger’s Bernard Fanning + Something for Kate’s Paul Dempsey | THE LAST VIDEO STORE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0000

All-timer heroes of Australian music Paul Dempsey from Something for Kate and Bernard Fanning from Powderfinger jump into the Last Video Store to talk about their new collaborative project THE DELUGE (Fanning Dempsey National Park), their favourite flicks, and score a staff pick recommendation from Alexei for a film they can watch while they’re on tour together.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s their combo list.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix
Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy
Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taskmaster’s Sam Campbell on his favourite films

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Sam Campbell, Taskmaster star and once played the killer in a low-budget Christmas-themed slasher film Dive into the world of film with Award-winning comedian Sam Campbell. Alexei have probably seen hundreds of movies together. They talk surreal comedies, sexy sports, grounded coming-of-age cinema and the summer they spent making the slasher film RED CHRISTMAS with their friend Craig Anderson.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists

Here’s Sam's combo list on Letterboxd

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

Watch the episode on YouTube

________

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

3:43 Opening Titles

5:56 ID Check

9:40 New Release - Challengers

26:21 Weekly - Gregory's Girl

41:04 Weekly - The Mask

50:18 Staff Pick - Jeremy

56:52 Staff Pick - The Pied Piper

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BIRDEATER directors Jack Clark & Jim Weir

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0000

The filmmakers behind the hottest Australian indie directorial debut in years BIRDEATER jump into the Last Video Store to discuss their film and two other favourites with Alexei Toliopoulos. In cinemas now, BIRDEATER explores modern Australian masculinity when a bride-to-be is invited to her fiancé’s bachelor party, but when uncomfortable details of their relationship are exposed, the night takes a feral turn.

Watch the episode on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Jack & Jim’s combo list.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenny Tian, star of TASKMASTER AU and Former President of Her University Film Society

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Before she was killing it on the new season of Taskmaster Australia, Jenny Tian was already a comedic sensation on stage and online. Just before she jumps off to tour her stand-up comedy show at THE EDINBURGH FRINGE she hopped into the Last Video Store to talk about her favourite films and reminisce on her time at the top of her university’s film society.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Jenny’s list on Letterboxd here.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ti West, director of MAXXXINE, PEARL and X

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Horror filmmaker Ti West sits down with Alexei for a short sharp bonus chat in the lead up to his new film MaXXXine, the third in a trilogy of horror films starring Mia Goth. One of the key settings of his latest film is a dank 1980s horror/porno video store, so we had to jump over to Ti for a catch-up about it all. Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marc Fennell, STUFF THE BRITISH STOLE & Formerly ‘THAT MOVIE GUY’

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0000

In an historic meeting of the minds, Walkley-winning journalist and documentary maker Marc Fennell steps into The Last Video Store. With season 2 of Marc’s factual tv show STUFF THE BRITISH STOLE currently airing, we asked him to get back to his roots of film criticism to talk about some of his favourite films with Alexei.

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Marc Fennell’s film combo on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel House, Director of THE MOUNTAIN and Star of HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:00:00 -0000

One of Aotearoa’s most celebrated actors, Rachel House (HEARTBREAK HIGH, MOANA) joins Alexei to talk about her directorial debut THE MOUNTAIN. A heartfelt NZ family adventure about three children on a mission to find healing under the watchful eye of Taranaki Maunga (Mountain), and discover the magic of friendship along the way. Coming-of-age cinema informs the combo today so think about the films that made you fall in love with movies when you pop this in your eyes and ears.

Watch the FULL EP ON YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Rachel’s combo on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aaron Gocs, comedian and star of THE EMU WAR

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 17:00:00 -0000

A much-treasured star of the Australian comedy scene, Aaron Gocs is bloody electric on screen. Catch him and a bunch of your favourite Australian comedians in THE EMU WAR, screening all around Australia this weekend (FIND A CINEMA NEAR YOU HERE). The Emu War gave me some of the most fun I’ve ever had in the cinema. Huge and powerful grubby laughs. You have to see it.

Gocsy is one of Alexei’s oldest mates in comedy, so he knows the fellas taste damn well. Might actually nail the recommendation on this one.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Gocsy’s list.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mitch Orr, Celebrated Chef and “the Prince of Pasta”

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:00:00 -0000

One of Alexei’s best friends, Mitch Orr jumps in to talk his favourite films. Known as “the Prince of Pasta”, Mitch Orr has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting voices in the culinary world. You can currently savour his flavours at KILN at the Ace Hotel in Sydeny and St Kilda’s Prince Dining Room. He’s also co-hosting a Cuisine on Screen program of the best food movies with Alexei at Golden Age Cinema.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s MITCH’s combo on Letterboxd.

Catch Alexei hosting the incredible Sunburnt Screens weekend of screenings at The Sydney Opera House on June 27, 28 and 30 HERE

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ione Skye, the iconic star of SAY ANYTHING…

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 17:00:00 -0000

WAYNE’S WORLD, FOUR ROOMS, GAS FOOD LODGING and SAY ANYTHING… Ione Skye stars in all films that sat on Alexei’s staff picks shelf back in his days at Mondo Movies. Ione is not just an all-timer great actor, she’s also the co-host one of the best podcasts WEIRDER TOGETHER with Ben Lee (hear it on SPOTIFY and APPLE).

In the midst of writing her memoir, Ione stopped by the Last Video Store. Ione is one of the best people to talk film with so we cover everything from one of the great modern epics, a hard noir and the film that kicked off 90s American Indie cinema.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s IONE’s combo on Letterboxd.

Catch Alexei hosting the incredible Sunburnt Screens weekend of screenings at The Sydney Opera House on June 27, 28 and 30 HERE

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aaron Chen, Star of FISK and Award Winning Comedian

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 29 May 2024 17:00:00 -0000

If you haven’t seen Aaron Chen’s YouTube special please remedy this ASAP

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

Catch Alexei hosting the incredible Sunburnt Screens weekend of screenings at The Sydney Opera House on June 27, 28 and 30 HERE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s AARON’s combo on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George Miller, Anya Taylor-Joy & Chris Hemsworth - FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA {New Release Special}

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 22 May 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Witness me! Celebrating the release of the decade’s most exciting action spectacle FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA. Filmmaker George Miller + stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth have made their way through the wastelands of a post-apocalyptic Australia to find themselves in THE LAST VIDEO STORE. Alexei Toliopoulos sits down with them all to discuss the madness, the Greekness and the fury that goes into making an epic.

Watch George Miller's interview HERE and Chris & Anya's interview HERE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Troy Cassar-Daley, the Country Music Luminary

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 15 May 2024 17:00:00 -0000

One of Australia’s greatest storytellers, Troy Cassar-Daley holds the record for most Golden Guitar Awards cementing the proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung as one of country music’s greatest icons. Troy’s new album BETWEEN THE FIRES is out now, recorded at his late mother’s home, it is a powerfully moving collection of songs and stories.

Without hyperbolising, this may be one of the best conversations Alexei has ever recorded. Troy has picked some films that resonate deeply with him and those emotional connections prove to be fertile ground for laughs and some top-tier cinematic celebration. Complete with a staff pick of a western that needs to be crystallised into the canon of cinema’s greats, the TCD visit might be the perfect episode of THE LAST VIDEO STORE.

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s TCD’s list up on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Goran Stolevski, the filmmaker of OF AN AGE, HOUSEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS and YOU WON’T BE ALONE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 08 May 2024 17:00:00 -0000

With his new film HOUSEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS arriving in cinemas this week, Goran Stolevski has proven himself to be one of the very best contemporary Australian filmmakers. A modern master of the close-up, each of Goran’s films are distinctly textured cinematic works worthy of your exploration.

A rental combo that includes a screwball classic, a powerful journey through Seoul and one of the best from Pedro Almodóvar. Without a doubt, Goran Stolevski is far and away the biggest cinephile we’ve had in the Last Video Store so Alexei has to work extra fricking hard to find a staff pick rec off the beaten path.

Watch the full ep on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Goran’s list up on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wes Ball, director of KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Mon, 06 May 2024 17:00:00 -0000

BONUS EPISODE! In an attempt to not overstate things, let's just say Alexei is a tremendous fan of all things PLANET OF THE APES… so of course we had to sneak in a quick chat with WES BALL, the filmmaker behind the new film in the franchise Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes ahead of its Australian release this week on May 9th.

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

More from the Last Video Store later this week!

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Helliar, Iconic Comedian, Writer and Film Buff

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 01 May 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Grab your popcorn and settle in for some scintillating cinematic discussion with the great Peter Helliar. A true lifelong lover of all things film Pete is the perfect guest for The Last Video Store. He’s been on our screens in everything from Rove [Live], Skithouse, The Project and the feature film he wrote I LOVE YOU TOO (2010). Helliar now even contributes to cinema in the most noble way possible… by being a comedian with a great film podcast with YOU AIN’T SEEN NOTHING YET.

Right now, Pete is in Sydney playing the Narrator of THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW live on stage.Alexei goes through some of Pete’s favourite films including a future classic romantic drama, the all-timer of hybrid sci-fi comedy cinema and the greatest Thanksgiving road comedy. Alexei of course weaves his magic to find the perfect Staff Pick for Pete… what could it be?

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anna Broinowski, the Only Western Filmmaker to Access NORTH KOREA’s Film & Propaganda Industry

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Not just the expert on North Korean cinema and hoax authors, Dr Anna Broinowski is one of Australia’s greatest investigative documentarians. Her riveting works include FORBIDDEN LIE$, AIM HIGH IN CREATION and PAULINE HANSON: PLEASE EXPLAIN. Through these and more she’s won a Walkley, 3 AFI/AACTAs, the Al Jazeera Golden Award and even a fricking WGA prize. Anna’s latest work is her memoir DATSUN ANGEL: A true-story adventure inside the savage heart of 1980s Australia - “it’s a feminist Mad Max on really bad 80s speed”.

Alexei’s never had a bigger hero than his mentor Anna Broinowski so it’s an honour to walk her through the shelves to pick out a rental combo of a recent Oscar-winning gothic oddity, a cult classic of experimental Danish documentary cinema and a North Korean Kaiju monster flick with the wildest backstory you’ve never heard + a staff pick recommendation from Alexei for all those looking for a great hoax.

Watch the full video on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Anna’s rental combo list.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Miranda Tapsell, star of TOP END WEDDING, THE SAPPHIRES and Rom-Com Expert

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Announcing Top End Bub, the follow-up to one of the best Australian romantic comedies ever, Miranda Tapsell stops by The Last Video Store. Turning in incredible performances in THE DRY, THE ARTFUL DODGER and so much more Miranda has cemented her reputation as one of Australia’s finest actors. And as you’re about to learn, Miranda Tapsell can even do a dead-on Nicolas Cage impression.

Miranda’s rental combo includes a future holiday classic, an Oscar-winning performance from one of the great music icons, a breakout hit of French cinema that inspired a global bob haircut epidemic and an underseen New York rom-com staff pick from guru Alexei Toliopoulos.

Watch the full ep on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Miranda’s list on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Dastmalchian, star of LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL + Directors Cameron & Colin Cairnes

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Celebrating the release of some homegrown horror we’re joined by the directors and star of LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL. With memorable turns in modern classics THE DARK KNIGHT, DUNE, PRISONERS and THE SUICIDE SQUAD, David Dastmalchian has cemented his reputation as one of the great character actors. Now he steps into the shoes of a late night talk show host in the midst of possession horror for his first leading role. Alexei talks to the horror aficionado all about it.

Then, we’re joined by the filmmakers Colin and Cameron Cairnes to talk through 3 weekly film titles that inspired and influenced different aspects of LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL.

GIVEAWAY: Cinema Passes to see Late Night with the Devil in Australia. To go in with a chance to win a double pass give us a 5 star review on Apple pods and send us a screenshot to our instagram @LastVideoStoreBetoota

Watch the full ep on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s the films we talked about on Letterboxd.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zachary Ruane, from AUNTY DONNA

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0000

John Leguizamo enthusiast and children’s television antagonist Zachary Ruane steps into the Last Video Store. Even more important than his mind-melting comedy work in the legendary sketch comedy group AUNTY DONNA, Zach is a lover of film presenting cinema with his FUN TIME FILM CLUB at the Lido in Melbourne. So this is a real meeting of the cinematic minds.

Zach’s picks include Alexei’s shared favourite film of 2023, a comedy with style, an Aussie Hitchcockian thriller and a surrealist masterwork from David Lynch. AND of course Lex has cooked up the most fricking weirdly perfect pick of the series so far. Like it’s nuts how he linked them up.

Watch this episode on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Zachary’s list!

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nina Oyama, Star of Deadloch & Taskmaster Australia

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Comedian/actor/writer/director/close personal friend Nina Oyama steps into Betoota Video. Fresh off AACTA nominations for her enthusiastic performance of Abby in Deadloch and Taskmaster Australia, Nina is about to embark on her Comedy Festival tour of her new show Nina Oyama is Coming at Melbourne Comedy Festival, Sydney Comedy Festival, Brisbane Comedy Festival and Perth Comedy Festival.

A true lover of cinema, Nina’s picks range from a Norwegian body horror comedy, an indie classic in modern monochrome and one of the greatest revenge thrillers that just celebrated its 20th anniversary with a huge cinematic re-release. Somehow, Alexei weaves these together for the rarest staff pick recommendation.

Watch this episode on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Nina’s combo on LB.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Armstrong, 2x Logie Award Winning Presenter

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

A true Renaissance man whose multifaceted career continues to surprise us all. Tony Armstrong kicked things off in AFL playing for the Sydney Swans, then he won 2 Logies back-to-back as a presenter on ABC News Breakfast and now he’s in Betoota for his new foray into story-driven documentary with his upcoming ABC series TONY ARMSTRONG'S EXTRA-ORDINARY THINGS.

With picks like one of the great masterpieces of surrealist anime, a grounded gritty crime epic and an inventive heist film that sits somewhere right in the middle… Alexei Toliopoulos has the perfect staff pick to pop into Tony’s combo.

Watch the full video on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Tony’s picks!

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clancy Overell, The Betoota Advocate Editor

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

The passionate journalist and Betoota local Clancy Overell welcomes Alexei to the desert town he now calls home. Stopping by to pick up a rental combo and settle some overdue late fees from a bygone era.

It’s up to Betoota’s registered cinephile to form the perfect staff pick from an Australian classic comedy, one of Scorsese’s grandest crime sagas and a warm melancholic hug from contemporary Irish cinema.

Watch the full video on YOUTUBE HERE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Clancy’s full list!

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angela White, the Meryl Streep of Porn

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

With perhaps more films in Betoota Video than any other performer (all located behind the beaded curtain), who better to stop by the Last Video Store than the legendary adult film superstar Angela White. The AVN Hall of Famer was the first to win Female Performer of the Year 3 times in a row earner her the honorary moniker the Meryl Streep of porn.

From modern crime masterpieces, a bonafide video store cult classic and a relationship drama with unsimulated sex Alexei weaves the perfect staff pick for Angela.

Watch FULL VIDEOS on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists.

Here’s Angela’s full list!

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polly Bennett, SALTBURN choreographer and ELVIS movement coach

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

If you need an actor to convincingly play a real-life figure that the whole world is deeply familiar with you get Polly Bennett to teach them exactly how to move like them. Teaching Austin Butler to wiggle his hips like the King in ELVIS, Rami Malek to command the stage like Freddie Mercury in BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY, how to stroll like a royal in THE CROWN and choreographing a murdered dancefloor with Barry Keoghan in SALTBURN - Polly Bennett is the moment.

And here on The Last Video Store she talks with Alexei about some classic female lead comedies, musicals and a genre-defining legend from Australia’s indie cinema boom of the 1990s.

Watch FULL VIDEOS on YOUTUBE

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Polly’s list for you, mate!

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke Bracey, Aussie actor and Hollywood hunk

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

From the trenches of HACKSAW RIDGE, to the sparkling glitz of ELVIS, and the crude humour of HOLIDATE… Working with some of the biggest directors, Luke Bracey is an actor building up a fascinating resume ranging from hardcore action thrills to Netflix romcom and chills.

From his cinematic selection, it seems like he has a taste for high-pressure international intrigue, espionage, political thrillers with personal stakes and GREAT acting. So what could Alexei possibly pick for him to leave the Last Video Story with?

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Luke Bracey list right here.

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cameron James, Comedian and Former Captain Jack Sparrow Impersonator

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Welcome to the Last Video Store. Joining us as our inaugural guest and customer #0 is Cameron James (FINDING YEEZUS, FINDING DRAGO, TOTAL REBOOT).

His debut single BOYS NIGHT has hit the web and he is about to embark on his most ambitious comedy festival tour to date with MIXTAPE, a show about music, love and the summer in 2009 that he worked as a singing Captain Jack Sparrow impersonator at a suburban dinner theatre restaurant.

Music, comedy and the entwining of both are on his mind when it comes to his rental combo at Betoota Video.

Follow ALEXEI TOLIOPOULOS on Letterboxd for all the rental combo lists. Here’s Cameron James’ list of favourites and recommendations.

Youtube Version

Music & sounds by Rowan Dix

Produced & Edited by Alex Jae and Xanon Murphy

Art by Hollow Bones Studio

Produced by DM Podcasts

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Total Reboot + Special Features Archive IS HERE

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 02:56:17 -0000

Here are your links to the forever archive of TOTAL REBOOT and SPECIAL FEATURES from Cameron James & Alexei Toliopoulos! AND a sneak peak at The Last Video Store with a little teaser trailer at the end!

TOTAL REBOOT ON SPOTIFY

TOTAL REBOOT ON APPLE PODCASTS

TOTAL REBOOT WEBSITE

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best Films of the 20th Century {Special Features Finale}

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 02:53:00 -0000

Decade by decade, Cameron & Alexei canonize the very best in films in a century of cinema. From the 1990s all the way back to the 1900s, we discuss a few favourite films from each decade.

And as you'll hear, this is the last Special Features episode (in this form at least for some time). So we had to treat you to our most Special Feature yet. If you're reading this before listening to the episode, we talk about it a bit more frankly and in-depth on the show. But it's all positive! We're trying to make more stuff together. More ambitious larger form projects. More things in the vein of Finding Yeezus and the other Finding shows. We're not breaking up, in fact, we're probably more deeply committed to each other than ever.

In the meantime, Cameron is embarking on his biggest stand-up comedy tour yet! (You can pick up tickets here: 2024 COMEDY TOUR)

And Alexei is kicking off a brand new podcast in this feed called THE LAST VIDEO STORE. It's a chat show with high-profile guests about the films they love. Basically, the film podcast Alexei's always dreamed about. Cam is even the very first frickin’ guest and will stop by constantly. So please stay subscribed, babies!

Old episodes of Total Reboot and Special Features will migrate over to a new feed and be protected in an archive forever.

TOTAL REBOOT ON SPOTIFY

TOTAL REBOOT ON APPLE PODCASTS

TOTAL REBOOT WEBSITE

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The Last Video Store Teaser

The Betoota Advocate & Alexei — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 07:50:43 -0000

The Betoota Advocate presents a chat show about the films you love. Join the movie maestro Alexei Toliopoulos in ‘The Last Video Store’ - located in the outback town of Betoota. Its a special hub of culture and memories with every single movie ever made lining its infinite shelves. Alexei talks with a guest about their most cherished cinematic selections, before he sends them of with a bespoke film recommendation based on their taste.

Coming soon to a Podcast player near you

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